What should lifeguards be constantly monitoring for during their shifts?

Lifeguards are primarily responsible for ensuring the safety of all swimmers in their designated area. This involves vigilant observation for any signs of distress or trouble among swimmers, which can manifest in various forms such as struggling to stay afloat, erratic movements, or shouting for help. Recognizing these signs quickly is crucial, as it allows lifeguards to intervene promptly to prevent accidents or emergencies.

While observing swimmers playing games or chatting with friends can be part of their monitoring duties, the primary focus is on safety and identifying potential hazards. Changes in the weather, such as storms or high winds, are also important to monitor, but they do not take precedence over the immediate safety of the swimmers in the water. Thus, maintaining constant awareness of swimmers’ conditions and any signs of distress is a lifeguard's fundamental responsibility to ensure a safe swimming environment.